A FIRST class train trip to London was just one of the treats in store for a young railway enthusiast from Bromsgrove.

Eight-year-old Matthew Wigley, of Hyde Close, Parklands, could not believe his luck when he scooped first prize in a competition organised by Virgin Trains.

Matthew received the invitation after making a winning model of a train out of Hama Beads. Shortly after sending the model away, the youngster was delighted to receive a letter of thanks and one of the company's own miniature trains.

Not long after that, the Finstall First School student was invited to take his family in first class luxury to the capital city during the Easter holidays. His dad Gareth said: "Matthew could not believe it when he won first prize in the competition. He was delighted when he found he would be travelling in first class style to London."

Matthew, who travelled with his dad and grandparents, also enjoyed a tour of the Virgin headquarters at Euston station.

The trip was rounded off when he was given another model of a train, this time autographed by Virgin's Richard Branson.

"He's only eight but like lots of young boys his age he wants to be a train driver," added Gareth.